Camping sites near Spencerville, Indiana offer varied terrains with access to interconnected waterways and forested areas. Northeast Indiana's camping season typically runs April through October, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 85°F during prime camping months. Winter camping options remain limited to a few year-round facilities, with Pokagon State Park maintaining accessibility when many other campgrounds close.
What to do
Water activities on connected lakes: Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground provides access to multiple connected lakes where campers can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. One visitor noted, "Chain is perfect for kayaking and canoeing with 9 connected lakes and 11 total. A couple lakes are perfect for boat fishing as long as you have an electric motor only." Rentals available on-site for those without equipment.
Hiking through diverse terrain: The trail system at Pokagon State Park Campground offers multiple difficulty levels across wooded areas. A camper mentioned, "There is an extensive trail system to enjoy that connects with the nearby nature preserve." The park maintains these trails year-round with maps available at the visitor center.
Urban exploration: Johnny Appleseed Campground provides easy access to downtown Fort Wayne attractions. "This is a great little campground if you are wanting to explore Fort Wayne or are local and want to campout. Easy access to downtown, the Coliseum, IPFW, and shopping," explains one reviewer. The River Greenway path runs through the park, connecting to miles of city trails.
What campers like
Clean, modernized facilities: Many campgrounds in the area maintain updated bathroom and shower facilities. At Johnny Appleseed Campground, campers consistently praise the amenities: "They have the best bathrooms that I have ever seen in the campgrounds. You can even look out at the skylight at the sky. It's a beautiful bathroom very well kept." Most facilities include hot showers with coded access for campers only.
Family-focused activities: Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground offers programming specifically for younger campers. As one visitor shared, "I have stayed at this state park many times since I was little. There is so much to do. Between the hiking trails, boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and biking. You won't ever get bored." The naturalist programs run weekends during summer months.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Quiet camping areas provide chances to observe local fauna. A camper at Bixler Lake Park & Campground reported, "This is by far the place to just relax. It does have its moments..Holidays and special events. Even then campers here live by the lights out code." Morning hours offer the best wildlife viewing along lake edges.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limitations: Most facilities operate on restricted schedules. At Indian Springs Campground, a visitor noted they're geared toward a specific experience: "It is geared toward kids with all kinds of bounce houses, etc. It is listed as a resort but this is no resort." Check individual campground schedules as many close completely between November and March.
Bathroom facility locations: Larger campgrounds may have limited facilities relative to their size. One camper warned: "This campground has around 500 sites and ONLY ONE BATH HOUSE! It is cramped and is full of long term campers." Sites furthest from facilities may require longer walks, especially problematic during nighttime or inclement weather.
Site privacy variations: Tent sites often lack the privacy found at more developed locations. A camper at Johnny Appleseed noted: "The campground is almost in the middle of Fort Wayne. Most of the sites are very close and no vegetation to allow any privacy." Requesting sites along edges or corners often provides more buffer space between neighbors.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for children: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with varying amenities. One visitor to Chain O' Lakes noted, "Kayaking and the beach was a huge hit with the kids." Most beaches lack lifeguards, so parental supervision remains necessary at all times.
Playground proximity: When booking sites with children, check proximity to play areas. At Johnny Appleseed Campground, a camper mentioned, "There is also a playground!" requesting sites near recreational facilities can reduce walking distances while allowing parents to monitor children from their campsite.
Naturalist programs: Angola/Hogback Lake KOA Holiday offers structured activities for various age groups. "Events every weekend and some fun for everyone," notes one visitor. These programs typically run weekends during peak season and include educational components about local wildlife and ecosystems.
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: Many established campgrounds have shorter sites that challenge larger rigs. A Pokagon State Park visitor noted, "Sites are shorter and sometimes uneven." Always check maximum length allowances when booking, as some sites accommodate only vehicles under 30 feet.
Electric service reliability: Power quality varies between campgrounds. At Angola/Hogback Lake KOA Holiday, one RVer shared their experience: "We've been to many KOA campgrounds over the years. Some great, some I'll never go back to. Hogback Lake definitely ranks at the top of the list. The owners take excellent care of the property." Most sites offer 30-amp service, with limited 50-amp availability requiring advance reservation.
